Sand, everyday materials, and clay go into making ceramic tiles. When they are shaped, the tiles are fired in an oven and allowed to cool. These days, you may get ceramic flooring in a wide range of settings. Since these tiles are resistant to moisture and stains, they provide a dependable compositional arrangement.
Glazed ceramic tiles and unglazed ceramic tiles are the two most common categories. Single terminating is applied to the unglazed tiles, while double terminating is used on the glazed tiles, and a vitreous layer is put in the middle. Tiles for walls, mosaics, and even certain low-traffic floors may be made from ceramic. Besides clay and sand, there aren’t many more materials needed to make ceramic tile. Quite a fine powder is produced by grinding these ingredients. To finish off the “Biscuit,” water is added before the dough is squeezed into a mould under extreme pressure.
See also: Tiles for floor: A list of different types and designs
Ceramic tiles: Setting
In comparison to porcelain, ceramic is not as long-lasting, and it usually cannot withstand the cold. Because of this, ceramic tiles should never be installed outside and should instead be used only inside. Historically, ceramic tiles have found their most common use in the bathroom and kitchen. However, with the advent of more versatile models in recent times, they now have several potential applications in other rooms of the house.
Ceramic tiles: Properties
- A ceramic tile floor will last a very long time. They have a breaking strength of around 350–400 kg per centimetre squared, while mosaic flooring only has about 100–150 kg per centimetre squared.
- When compared to other flooring options, ceramic tiles need less effort to clean and maintain. It doesn’t absorb odours and can withstand acids and alkalis without discolouring.
- Ceramic tiles are very hard and durable, scoring between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale. In other words, a small amount of scratching will occur even if sharp, hard objects are used.
- Ceramic flooring is a third the weight and just 7.5 millimetres thick of mosaic. Due to its lightweight construction and thinner floor bedding requirements, this alternative to mosaic flooring may save significant amounts of money.
- Because no germs can thrive on ceramic tile, it is safe to go barefoot on it. This is a high-quality material that may be used everywhere, from a hospital to an operating room to an industrial kitchen to a deep-freeze storage facility.
- Because of its high acoustic dampening factor, ceramic tile is often used in auditoriums and other large venues because of its effectiveness in reducing reverberation.
Ceramic tiles: Types
Glazed ceramic tiles
Protective glazes may be applied on glazed tiles in a variety of sheen levels. In most cases, a matte finish is preferable, and it works especially well with stone.
Source: Pinterest
Decorated ceramic tiles
It’s common to see wall tiles in places like bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways. Wall tiles, with the diversity of patterns available, are a stunning addition to any room’s decor.
Source: Pinterest
Ceramic floor tiles
There is a trend toward matte sheens for floor tiles. Inquire as to whether or not the ceramic tile you prefer may be used on the floor.
Source: Pinterest
Ceramic tiles: Advantages
- Ceramic tiles have the advantages of being very hardy, long-lasting, and resistant to wear. A professionally installed floor of tiles may survive for decades if cared for correctly. As a consequence, you won’t have to spend as much money replacing tiles as often, which will reduce your expenses over time.
- Stains, dirt, and liquids will simply bead up on its surface rather than being absorbed into it, making cleanup a breeze. To maintain their cleanliness, just sweep or vacuum the floors using a gentle brush attachment.
- Ceramic tile flooring is a great option since it is resistant to moisture. For high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, ceramic tile’s protective coating helps it last far longer than other materials due to its resistance to water and stains.
- Tiles may be cut to different sizes and shapes to create unique designs, and ceramic tiles come in a broad variety of colours, textures, and styles. They may be adapted to suit almost any aesthetic preference or colour palette.
- The ceramic tile flooring is not only simple to clean but also inhibits the spread of bacteria. Having ceramic tiles because of this quality is helpful when operating a company that deals with the public, such as a restaurant.
Ceramic tiles: Downsides
- Ceramic tiles may be long-lasting and need less upkeep, but they’re also quite difficult to install. However, because of its hardness, the floor may be uncomfortable to stand on for long periods of time. Putting soft rugs on hard ceramic tile floors may help reduce the effects of falls.
- Ceramic tile floors do not absorb or retain heat well, making them uncomfortable to walk on during the colder months. When this is installed in a house, the first thing you’ll notice when you get up in the morning is how cold the floor is.
- Because of its weight, ceramic tile flooring is not recommended for usage on higher floors. An expert should check the stability of the structure before tiling the upper floors of a commercial building.
Ceramic tiles: Uses
Waterproof ceramic tiles are a great option for any shower or bathroom design, from traditional enclosed spaces to modern open designs inspired by marble. Tiles are also used in kitchens, where they are often used to create a backsplash since they are non-absorbent and simple to clean. Ceramic tile may be used outside in patios, decks, lanais, and other enclosable or courtyard spaces if it is properly cleaned and maintained.
Ceramic tiles: Installation
It takes a lot of time and effort to lay ceramic tile, and it might be difficult to do so. Tiling is not as do-it-yourself friendly as other flooring options like laminate or vinyl, but even amateurs can do it.
Ceramic tiles: Cost
Ceramic tile is one of the most cost-effective options for your floor, with cheap tile and do-it-yourself installation ranging from Rs 34 per sq. feet to Rs 356 per sq. feet. Tile flooring may be less expensive than solid hardwood at the DIY level, but can quickly become more expensive when you upgrade to more attractive tiles and pay for expert installation.
Ceramic tiles: Taking care of repairs and upkeep
Because of its exceptional hardness, ceramic is low-maintenance and straightforward to clean. The downside is that this often makes it unpleasant and hard to stand on. The use of cushioned underlayment will not lessen the hardness of ceramic tiles, in contrast to resilient flooring.
Glazed tiles in particular, are very low maintenance since their protective glaze seals the tile and prevents damage from water and most stains. This is the primary reason why tile is favoured in places prone to moisture, such as kitchens, baths, and utility rooms. The surface traps dirt, stains, and liquids, making them simple to remove with a wet mop or rag.
FAQs
Why do we use ceramic tiles?
Tiles made of ceramic are often used in these and other locations: floors, walls, countertops, backsplashes, and baths. If you're looking for a flooring material that can be used wherever in the home, ceramic tile could be your only choice. Ceramic tiles feature a hard, impermeable surface that won't harbour allergies like dust, pollen, or grime.
What are the characteristics of ceramic tiles?
Ceramics often offer excellent resistance to a broad variety of chemicals and stains. Surfaces made of ceramic tile may be installed in a variety of business settings, including labs, hospitals, slaughterhouses, and many more.
What exactly is the composition of ceramic tile?
Ceramic tiles are often crafted from a mixture of clay, talc, and sand. They're manageable and lightweight. Unfortunately, these characteristics also impose certain limitations on their usefulness.
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